| (Syn. Rhoeo discolor.) Until you look closely at this charming houseplant, you might wonder why on earth it's called Moses-in-the-Cradle. Its large, elegant, strap-shaped leaves are glossy-green on the top, rich purple below, and they arise in a tight clump. But when the tiny white flowers begin to dot this plant near the base, you'll notice that each one is carried in a neat little boat-shaped bract, as if negotiating the bulrushes! Just a foot or so high and wide, Moses-in-the-Cradle spills out of small containers beautifully, making a nice two-color splash in any setting. It's happy under the fluorescent lighting of offices as well as the natural sun of bright windows, and needs very little care to keep looking its best. And that's just about all I ask out of a houseplant . . . except beauty, of course, which Moses has in great supply! Super easy to germinate, Moses-in-the-Cradle thrives in room temperature conditions with bright light or even direct sun. It likes humidity, and needs plenty of water (as well as twice-monthly feedings) during the growth season. In winter, let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Do not repot as it grows unless absolutely necessary; it likes to feel crowded and a bit rootbound! Pack is 5 seeds. |
